How to Spend Cryptocurrency in 2024 [Just Like Fiat Currency]

In recent years, cryptocurrencies have gained significant popularity and have become widely accepted as a form of digital currency. As we enter 2024, the adoption of cryptocurrencies continues to grow, and more businesses and individuals are embracing new means of crypto payment, such as crypto debit cards. 

This blog aims to provide readers with a comprehensive guide on how to spend cryptocurrency in 2024, enabling them to use their digital assets just like cash.

How Do You Spend Cryptocurrency?

Cryptocurrency, the digital gold of the modern era, has skyrocketed in popularity and captured the imagination of people worldwide. But it’s not just about trading on the crypto markets or HODLing until the end of time. Now, people want to find ways to spend and use their crypto tokens in their everyday lives. So, how to spend cryptocurrency? And what is the most convenient option? Let’s explore some of the most effective ways to unleash the power of your cryptocurrency in 2024.

Crypto Debit Cards

By far the most convenient and simple option, crypto debit cards have become many crypto holders’ chosen way to use crypto in their day-to-day lives. Crypto debit cards work similarly to your standard debit card, except you use it to spend crypto, not fiat money. Users can load their cryptocurrency onto the card and use it for purchases wherever regular debit or credit cards are accepted. 

Some cards require you to pre-load crypto through an app or platform. You’ll need to choose the amount of crypto you want to load onto the card and convert it to be spent using your card. 

Others make the process even smoother by converting crypto from your crypto wallet at the point of sale. With the CryptoWallet.com crypto card, you can spend over 800 cryptocurrencies anywhere debit cards are accepted, and you can simply tap your card to directly spend your crypto.

The card launches in Q4 – sign up for the crypto card here!

Convert Your Cryptocurrency Into Cash

For ardent believers that “Cash is King,” you must be asking How to spend cryptocurrency just like cash? With so many options in the market, you can also convert your cryptocurrency into cash and then spend that cash online or in-store. There are a couple of options available to convert your cryptocurrency into traditional currency. 

Exchange

This is one of the more traditional methods of converting cryptocurrency into cash. A cryptocurrency exchange is a platform that allows you to buy and trade cryptocurrencies. While some are crypto-only, others provide a “fiat off-ramp.” This is a service that allows you to sell your cryptocurrency for cash and transfer it to your bank account. They will also usually provide a crypto on-ramp so you can purchase crypto using fiat money via a bank transfer or card transaction. Some exchanges that support this include Binance, Coinbase, and Kraken. Ensure you choose a reputable exchange with low fees and robust security measures to safeguard your funds.

Crypto ATMs

If you’d rather convert your cryptocurrency into cold, hard cash, crypto ATMs might be the perfect solution. A newer solution, these machines enable users to sell their cryptocurrencies and withdraw cash instantly. In countries like the US, they can be found in most major cities. In the UK, there has been a clampdown on crypto ATMs, and as a result, it may be hard to find one. 

Overall, with an increasing number of crypto ATMs being deployed globally, finding one near your location should become more convenient. You can also use platforms like Coin ATM Finder or Bitcoin ATM Map to find a crypto ATM in your area. However, be mindful of the transaction fees associated with using crypto ATMs.

Online Shopping with Cryptocurrency

The world of online shopping has embraced cryptocurrency as a form of payment. Many e-commerce platforms and online retailers now accept various cryptocurrencies as a means of transaction. Giant online retailers such as Overstock, Newegg, and Shopify have integrated cryptocurrency payment services. Many smaller stores have also introduced crypto payment options. 

There are also many crypto-only online merchants where you use crypto to buy things like jewelry, watches, cars, and other luxury products. Some examples include BitDials and the popular crypto-only peer-to-peer marketplace Crypto Emporium.

You can even spend crypto on larger purchases like cars or houses. AutoCoinCars is an online platform that connects you with car dealers who accept crypto, while Crypto Real Estate offers the same service for houses. 

You’ll need to check if the store you want to spend crypto at accepts your chosen cryptocurrency. However, with a crypto debit card, you can spend cryptocurrency at any online store, saving you time and effort researching. 

Companies That Accept Cryptocurrencies

Even some brick-and-mortar stores are hopping on the cryptocurrency craze! Now, you can spend cryptocurrency at stores like Starbucks, Whole Foods, and NewEgg. For moviegoers, you can even buy cinema tickets for AMC theatres using their app. 

If you’re lucky enough to live in El Salvador, you’ll find it much easier to spend cryptocurrency as Bitcoin has been accepted as legal tender. You can even buy a Happy Meal with your crypto tokens! Bitcoin Beach is a Bitcoin-powered ecosystem in El Salvador, where Bitcoin is the primary currency used. 

However, most physical stores do not yet accept cryptocurrency as payment. Several directories and apps, such as Coinmap and CoinGate, can help you find nearby merchants that accept cryptocurrency in your area. The easiest way to spend your crypto anywhere you go is by using a crypto debit card.

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Buy Gift Cards and Use Them for Payment

Another creative way to spend cryptocurrency is by purchasing gift cards with your digital assets. There are countless websites on the market where crypto holders can buy gift cards. Popular platform BitRefill allows you to buy gift cards from hundreds of stores, including Airbnb, Deliveroo, Sainsbury’s, ASOS, Uber, Twitch, Steam, Amazon, H&M, and Nike.

Use Apps To Spend Your Cryptocurrency

In the Era of the App, there are numerous mobile apps available that allow users to spend their cryptocurrency directly from their smartphones. These apps often provide features like contactless payments, QR code scanning, and integration with existing payment systems. Some popular apps include BitPay, Coinomi, and Trust Wallet, which offer a user-friendly experience and support a wide range of cryptocurrencies. You can also use these apps to request or send payments to other people. 

Some new banking platforms like Revolut allow you to convert and spend cryptocurrency all in-app. However, there may be high fees associated with these transactions. 

Innovative apps have transformed your smartphone into a personal crypto wallet, allowing you to trade, buy, spend, and manage your crypto assets all from your phone. Gone are the days of paper wallets and running your own Bitcoin client. Now everything is streamlined and accessible to people around the globe.

Read More: How to Pay with Crypto?

Donations

Cryptocurrency’s borderless and decentralized nature makes it an ideal option for charitable donations. Many non-profit organizations and foundations now accept cryptocurrency as a form of donation. This provides individuals with the opportunity to support causes they care about using their cryptocurrency holdings. Platforms like The Giving Block and BitGive help connect donors with organizations that accept cryptocurrency donations.

Some major charities that accept cryptocurrency include RNLI, UNICEF, Save the Children, and Red Cross. Cryptocurrency has played a vital role in donations to the Ukrainian war efforts, with $60 million donated in crypto worldwide and the funds used for purchasing weapons and relief efforts. 

Bottom Line

In 2024, crypto cards have emerged as the best way to spend cryptocurrency, providing users with a seamless and convenient experience similar to using traditional cash. With the ability to make purchases online and offline, withdraw cash from ATMs, and send money to others, crypto cards offer a practical solution for utilizing digital assets in everyday life.

Sign up for the CryptoWallet.com crypto card here.